New Chief Judge For Hussein Trial Chosen

Saddam Hussein on trial in December (epa)
23 January 2006 -- With just one day to go before the resumption of the trial of ousted Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein, the court has appointed a new presiding judge, Rauf Rashid Abd al-Rahman.

Al-Rahman, a Kurd, will stand in for Rizgar Muhammad Amin, who submitted his resignation earlier this month after strong public criticism that he was being too lenient with Hussein by allowing him to speak out in court.

A court spokesman said al-Rahman will remain as presiding judge until an official decision is taken on whether to accept Amin's resignation.

Amin has repeatedly said his decision to resign is final.

(Reuters, AFP, AP)

Saddam Hussein In Pictures

A slideshow of photographs from Saddam Hussein's years ruling Iraq through his downfall.